“Born into slavery, Cathay was liberated in 1861 and worked as a cook for the Union Army during the Civil War. In 1866 she enlisted in the U.S. Army as a Private William Cathey serving with the Buffalo Soldiers at Fort Cummings and Fort Bayard until 1868. She is the only documented women to serve as an enlisted soldier in the Regular U.S. Army during the 19th Century.”
When I read the sign, I was surprised. The sign paints a very small depiction of Williams’ life, and since then I have learned more about her. One, she disguised herself as a male in order to enlist and did so for two years. During this time, no medical examination was required to enlist, but keeping her secret would prove somewhat difficult. On various occasions, she fell ill and did have to seek medical treatment, but through her cleverness was never exposed until she–herself–decided to reveal her identity. She was discharged October 14, 1868, and lived many years after her military service–note the sign does not mention her death. However, the African American Registry states that Cathay Williams died at the age of 82 in Raton, New Mexico. I’m glad to hear she had a long life, well beyond her years at war. Pvt. Cathay Williams, may you forever rest in peace and thank you for your service.
Wow! I love posts like this! Thanks for sharing. I love history and learning new things.
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Hi Karen! Thank you! I’m glad you enjoyed the historical lesson. 🙂
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I am putting together a book about inspirational women for my granddaughter. Cathay is definitely going into the book. thanks for the great post.
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That’s wonderful, glad to hear!
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Reblogged this on Haddon Musings.
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Thank you so much for sharing this! I had never heard of her. I love history.
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I’m so glad you enjoyed! I’m glad I stopped that day! If you search her name you’ll find a book on Amazon. I’m not sure how accurate it is, but I’m curious to learn more about her.
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Great piece of history! It’s amazing to learn about such an interesting story of courage and social defiance, often they type of African American stories that we seldom hear about during our early education years. Good work!
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Thank you! Clearly she was a strong willed woman!
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Thanks for sharing Cathy seemingly deserves to be celebrated:-)
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Yes indeed! Thank you for commenting and reading. 😊
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https://dukecitytimes.com/2017/02/25/it-is-the-presidents-job-duty-and-obligation-to-utilize-the-press-of-the-american-people/
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Thank you for sharing and following. I look forward to more of your posts.
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What a lovely tribute to Cathay. She would be pleased.😊
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Thank you! What a brave woman. I’m so glad you enjoyed reading. Thank you for stopping by. 😊
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